Technical Assistant I - Lehmann Lab (Relocation Assistance Available!)

Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research

Cambridge, MA, USA

Published: 6/14/2022

Technology

Full Time

Job Description

The Lehmann lab is seeking a motivated, curious, and detail-oriented Technical Assistant I to help support cutting-edge research into the molecular mechanisms that define germ cell identity. This role is ideal for recent graduates planning to pursue graduate or medical school, or for experienced individuals looking to broaden their skillset.

Our research aims to uncover how transcriptional regulation promotes and maintains germ cell fate. A specific program for germ cell transcriptional activation has yet to be described, largely because a ‘master regulator transcription factor’ for germ cell fate has not been identified in any organism. We aim to discover key transcriptional regulators of germ cell fate and reveal how germ cell identity is established and protected. Understanding these mechanisms has far reaching implications for fertility and cancer research, including the generation of germ cells from somatic cells to treat infertility.

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

The Technical Assistant I will work closely under the supervision of the principal investigator and a postdoctoral fellow to learn and perform a variety of research activities, including fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatic analysis, cloning, and data analysis. A qualified individual will be able to interpret experimental outcomes with the support of a Postdoctoral Fellow and present findings to the supervisor and other group members in oral and written formats.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

Conduct bench level experiments and independent research projects under the mentorship of a postdoctoral fellow and principal investigator
Fluorescence in situ hybridization (HCR-FISH) in Drosophila embryos and fluorescence microscopy
Whole genome sequencing methods such as single cell/bulk RNA-sequencing, ChIP-sequencing, and Cut-and-Tag
Bioinformatic analysis of whole genome sequencing data
Molecular biology - PCR, DNA, and RNA purification, basic cloning techniques
Genetic crosses and fly stock maintenance
Use of R and Python programming languages
Document and compile experimental data in a lab notebook on a daily basis
Other duties, as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, or a field directly related to the work
At least one year of undergraduate research experience
Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills
Must be motivated, organized, and enthusiastic about learning new skills
Basic knowledge/background in programming using R or Python is preferred
Previous experience with Drosophila genetics is a plus

Company DescriptionWHITEHEAD INSTITUTE for BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH
Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research is a leading, nonprofit research and educational institution that has defined the cutting edge of biomedical science, creating a legacy of research excellence and academic eminence since 1982. Wholly independent in its governance, finances and research programs, Whitehead shares a teaching affiliation with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), offering the intellectual, collegial and scientific benefits of a leading research university. Whitehead’s Faculty Members and Fellows run pioneering programs in cancer research, immunology, developmental biology, stem cell research, regenerative medicine, genetics and genomics—programs with a record of success.

We offer excellent benefits including a choice of health insurance options; a generous retirement plan; comprehensive dental, disability and life insurance coverage; competitive salary, substantial vacation and holiday time; and programs for tuition reimbursement, dependent care assistance, pre-tax spending accounts, and subsidized public transportation or parking. We also offer relocation assistance.

The Whitehead Institute believes diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) are integral to its values and mission. As a research Institute dedicated to improving human health through biomedical science, we believe that diverse thought invokes creative inquiry, drives innovation, and fuels scientific breakthrough. We welcome all individuals of all backgrounds including race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, veterans status, national origin, disability, marital status, parental status, socioeconomic status and/or origin. Whitehead Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Company Description

WHITEHEAD INSTITUTE for BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH\r\nWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research is a leading, nonprofit research and educational institution that has defined the cutting edge of biomedical science, creating a legacy of research excellence and academic eminence since 1982. Wholly independent in its governance, finances and research programs, Whitehead shares a teaching affiliation with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), offering the intellectual, collegial and scientific benefits of a leading research university. Whitehead’s Faculty Members and Fellows run pioneering programs in cancer research, immunology, developmental biology, stem cell research, regenerative medicine, genetics and genomics—programs with a record of success. \r\n\r\nWe offer excellent benefits including a choice of health insurance options; a generous retirement plan; comprehensive dental, disability and life insurance coverage; competitive salary, substantial vacation and holiday time; and programs for tuition reimbursement, dependent care assistance, pre-tax spending accounts, and subsidized public transportation or parking. We also offer relocation assistance.\r\n\r\nThe Whitehead Institute believes diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) are integral to its values and mission. As a research Institute dedicated to improving human health through biomedical science, we believe that diverse thought invokes creative inquiry, drives innovation, and fuels scientific breakthrough. We welcome all individuals of all backgrounds including race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, veterans status, national origin, disability, marital status, parental status, socioeconomic status and/or origin. Whitehead Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.